Broadband Internet over Power Lines outpacing Cable and DSL Growth

According to a new report from the market research firm Parks Associates, the growth of broadband internet service over standard power lines (BPL) is outpacing that of both Cable and DSL. Parks Associates estimates that the use of power lines to get broadband internet will grow from 400,000 households in 2007 to 2.5 million by 2011.

"Both consumer demand and business factors will drive this growth," said Chris Roden, research analyst at Parks Associates. "On the consumer side, many rural residents don't have access to DSL or cable, but every house in the U.S. has access to power lines. This technology is often the only option for these residents to receive broadband service. On the business side, utility companies will also drive BPL's growth. BPL gives utilities more information to better manage power demand and troubleshoot line issues."

[Bill Fox]